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Gum Disease
Are you experiencing soreness and redness in your gums? Are you worried it will continue to erode your oral health?
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Gum disease is a common dental issue that can cause various oral and physical health-related complications if not treated timely. According to the Australian Dental Association, one in three Australian adults suffers from gum disease. That’s not all! Over 50% of Australians over the age of 65 have gum disease. But here is the good news! Gum disease is treatable and preventable! All it takes is to maintain optimal oral hygiene and regularly visit your Dentist in Nowra NSW for checkups.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, refers to a bacterial infection of the gums and the tissues that support our teeth in their sockets. If you or a loved one has swollen, tender, and bleeding gums, chances are they have gum disease.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Gum disease is caused by two main factors: plaque and tartar deposition on the teeth and bacterial adherence. When oral hygiene is ignored, plaque and tartar deposits form on the teeth. These deposits provide an excellent breeding environment for the disease-causing bacteria, which release toxins that damage the gum tissues. If the condition is not treated timely, there is extensive damage to the underlying bone, making the teeth mobile and can even lead to tooth loss.
Besides, there are other factors that increase the risk of developing gum disease:
- Genetic factors
- Some medical conditions can also increase the risk of gum disease such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and HIV
- Some medications reduce salivary flow and increase the risk of gum disease
- Tobacco consumption has also been linked to an increased risk of gum disease
- Hormonal changes in women during menstruation and pregnancy can also increase the risk of gum disease.
What are the Stages of Gum Disease?
There are various stages of gum disease.
Gingivitis
The earliest stage of gum disease is gingivitis, which is characterised by the swelling and inflammation of the gums. At this stage, the gums are tender and the teeth are sensitive to hot or cold foods and drinks due to gum recession.
Periodontitis
If gingivitis is not treated timely, it can lead to an extensive infection in the gums and the supporting structures of the teeth. The infection causes widespread destruction of the fibres attaching the teeth to the gums and jawbone. As a result, “pockets” begin to form between the teeth and gums, further promoting food impaction and plaque deposition.
Advanced Periodontitis
If periodontitis is not treated timely, the infection extends into the bone and causes widespread destruction, making the teeth mobile in their sockets. If treatment is not sought timely, the teeth become so mobile that they begin to fall off.
What is the Treatment of Gum Disease?
Gum disease treatment in Nowra involves treating the underlying issue. Our general dentist in Nowra NSW treats gingivitis by giving oral health instructions and recommending the use of a medicated mouthwash. On the other hand, periodontitis is treated by removing the plaque and tartar deposits through a procedure called scaling and root planning. In this, we will use an ultrasonic scaler to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and neutralise harmful bacteria. If there is extensive bone loss, we will replace the lost bone tissue using a bone grafting process. Furthermore, if any teeth are lost, our cosmetic dentist in Nowra will replace them with implants.
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Gum disease can quickly turn into a larger problem. Treat it quickly and for good.
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Get quick answers to common questions about General Dentistry treatments, benefits, and care.
Gum Disease/Periodontics
Periodontal disease (“gum disease”) is the most common cause of adult tooth loss. But not only does it raise your chances of losing teeth; it also strains your immune system. Research shows that chronic gum disease statistically raises your chances of suffering from a heart attack, stroke, uncontrolled blood glucose levels, high blood pressure, and even difficulty conceiving. As such, treating your oral infection is just as important for your overall health as it is your smile.
What is Gum Disease?
Periodontal disease is an infection that causes your gums and bone to pull away from the roots of your teeth. It’s characterised by symptoms like:
- Sore, swollen gums
- Gum recession
- “Pockets” under your gums
- Spaces between teeth
- Bad breath/halitosis
- Tartar build-up
- Tooth mobility
- Bleeding when you brush and floss
- Visible bone loss on your dental X-rays
How do I Fix Gum Disease?
Since gum disease isn’t reversible, it’s important to treat the source of infection and prevent it from getting any worse. Our Nowra dentists may recommend a series of scalings, followed by frequent maintenance cleans.
Call Today to Save Your Smile
Proactive treatment is the best way to avoid tooth loss due to gum disease. Call South Coast Dentists today to request a periodontal exam.
How can I be sure this is the right procedure for me?
We offer a wide range of services and will only suggest a suitable solution if we are confident that this is the right solution to hit your goals.
My Gums are Swollen But I Don’t Feel Any Pain. Do I Have Gum Disease?
During the initial stages of gum disease, there is no pain and only swelling. So, you are suffering from gingivitis. The good news is that gingivitis is reversible with optimal oral hygiene maintenance and regular dental checkups.
Can Over Brushing Cause Gum Disease?
If you use excessive force during brushing, it can result in gum recession and exposure of the tooth roots. As a result, your teeth may become sensitive and at an increased risk of developing teeth cavities and gum disease.
Is Gum Disease Preventable?
Yes, gum disease can be easily prevented by doing the following:
- Maintaining optimal oral hygiene through brushing and flossing
- Eating a tooth-friendly diet rich in nutrients and dietary fibre
- Visiting your dentist in Nowra regularly for checkups
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